Many building owners assume a commercial roof warranty means the roof will be worry-free until the coverage period ends. But warranties don’t replace maintenance—in fact, most warranties require it. The best way to protect your investment is to begin routine maintenance long before your warranty expires. The right timing depends on several factors, including your roof system, environment, and rooftop activity.
Every roofing system ages differently, and your commercial roof warranty often specifies the type of maintenance required. Single-ply membranes may develop seam issues, built-up roofs can hide trapped moisture, and coated roofs still need periodic inspections to maintain warranty compliance.
No matter the system, waiting until the end of your warranty period is a costly mistake.
Your location can determine how quickly your roof experiences wear.
Your commercial roof warranty may not cover damage caused by preventable weather-related deterioration, which is why early inspections are critical.
Warranty documents often include clauses related to foot traffic and damage caused by other trades. HVAC technicians, electricians, and service workers unintentionally cause punctures, seam separations, and flashing damage. Without routine inspections, these issues go unnoticed until the roof is too damaged to qualify for warranty-backed repairs.
For most properties, a practical rule of thumb applies:
Start maintenance around the halfway point of your commercial roof warranty or sooner if your roof faces harsh weather or heavy foot traffic.
For a 10-year warranty: schedule inspections around years 3–5.
For a 20-year warranty: start around years 7–10.
This timing prevents small issues from escalating into major warranty-voiding problems.
A commercial roof warranty doesn’t cover everything—and it definitely doesn’t cover neglect. Minor leaks or early membrane deterioration can spread quickly, leading to moisture intrusion that eliminates coating or repair options.
Early maintenance helps you:
✔ Maintain eligibility under your commercial roof warranty
✔ Extend the lifespan of your system
✔ Catch hidden moisture or seam issues early
✔ Avoid premature replacement costs
✔ Keep documentation proving the roof was properly maintained
Think of it as preventative care for your biggest building asset.
If you’re unsure whether your roof is still in good condition or approaching the point where maintenance is critical, a free evaluation is the safest way to get clarity. A professional inspector can tell you what’s working, what’s wearing out, and how to stay compliant with your commercial roof warranty guidelines.
A little maintenance now saves a lot of money and headaches later.
For more information and/or a complimentary roof evaluation, please complete the inquiry form below.